What is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)?
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is an electric modality commonly used in physical therapy for the treatment of pain. The following are characteristics of TENS:
- low voltage electrical current
- used for pain relief, decrease muscle spasm
- small battery-powered machine with electrodes
- usually two electrodes but can have more
- a current is passed through the tissues between pairs of electrodes
- may affect nerves and, as a result, block or scramble pain signals
- may stimulate the production of endorphins with are natural pain killers
- strength of the stimulation can be controlled
Similar products are marketed to lay-people, such as Dr. Ho’s products.
Read about other therapeutic modalities: